Fresh Takes: One backhand is not enough

Today’s young pros are adding new and sometimes radical shots to the classic tennis repertoire. Here’s how to make these next-gen plays work for you, too. Don’t underestimate the importance of a solid slice-backhand.

You either have a one-handed backhand or a two-hander. There’s no way to master both, right? Don’t tell that to Ash Barty. She has risen to No. 1 in part on the strength of her backhands—yes, plural. Barty has a smooth one-handed slice, but when the occasion calls for it, she can use two hands and drive the ball.

The combination allows her to take advantage of the strengths and avoid the weaknesses of each stroke. She can use two hands for power on returns and passes, and one hand when she’s rallying, playing defense or approaching the net. “Most players can do it,” Malmqvist believes. “If you start at a young age, and you have a twohanded backhand, you should spend a few minutes each practice working on your one-handed slice.

You don’t have to use it all the time, but it will add a lot to your game.” Barty shows us the reward with her versatility. She’s comfortable at net or at the baseline, in singles or in doubles, and on all surfaces.